On Monday, 12 September 2016, The Honourable Justice Michael Kirby AC CMG delivered the lecture “After the High Court of Australia: the Growing Globalisation of Law”. The lecture was held at Emmanuel College and chaired by Professor Andrew Griffiths, Executive Dean (Acting), Faculty of Business, Economics and Law (BEL).
Justice Kirby spoke candidly on recognising universal principles of human rights, and how the courts adopt these principles into municipal law. The challenge – and importance, of protecting the rights of groups outside the traditional decision-making process was a particular interest point.
A panel discussion between Justice Kirby and Professor James Allan followed the lecture, addressing issues of democracy, the role of the United Nations, and whether Australia should have a bill of rights. A combined audience of students and academics were present to hear Justice Kirby and Professor Allan speak.
Later that evening, Justice Kirby presented the UQLS Harry Gibbs lecture.
